The Key Stage 5 curriculum at NUAST places a heavy emphasis on the STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). This means that Mathematics underpins many of the A-Level subjects students choose. ​

A Level - Mathematics

What will I Study? The new A Level course consists of two Pure Mathematics units, and one Applied Mathematics unit covering both Statistics and Mechanics. A few of the topics from the GCSE higher tier are revisited at A level but, in general, pupils will be studying mostly new topics and a much wider syllabus. Pure Mathematics will consider proof, algebra, co-ordinate geometry, sequences and series, trigonometry, exponentials and logarithems, calculus and functions. In Applied Mathematics, Statistics considers mathematical models in probability and statistics; data presentation and interpretation; statistical distributions and hypothesis testing. Mechanics considers mathematical models; kinematics; forces and Newton's laws and moments. As students progress throughout the two-year course, their mathematical maturity will increase and students will begin to appreciate the beauty and immense power of Mathematics. The course encourages an understanding of Mathematics and mathematical processes in a way to promote confidence and foster enjoyment. It develops the ability to reason logically, to generalise and to construct sound mathematical proofs.

How will I be assessed? Syllabus no: Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Mathematics (9MA0) Each unit is assessed by a 2 hour exam, worth 33.3% of the qualification, taken at the end of Year 13. There is no coursework.

What are the entry requirements? A level assumes that pupils will use the mathematical background and expertise developed at GCSE, thus a minimum of a Grade 6 is required but preferably Grade 7 at GCSE mathematics. Pupils must be willing to enter into a partnership with their Mathematics teachers in order to share the more extensive knowledge of mathematical ideas and methods. Pupils must have a genuine interest in the subject and appreciate that, in terms of technical skills and understanding, it is quite different from the GCSE course. Pupils will need to have the maturity to take responsibility for their learning and understanding with the support of their Mathematics teachers.

Combinations Mathematics is one of the oldest academic subjects. It therefore is well respected for university entrance and combines well with other A level subjects, whether they are art, science or language based.

A Level - Further Mathematics

What will I Study?

This course consists of two compulsory and two optional units. It builds on the subject content of A level Mathematics so must be studied alongside A level Mathematics. In the two compulsory Further Pure Mathematics units new and established topics are considered further; for example, complex numbers, matrix algebra, differential equations, Maclaurin and Taylor series. We offer Further Mechanics 1 and Further Statistics 1 as our two optional units. The choice of different option units will be considered by staff and students during the course.

The course extends the range of mathematical skills and techniques learnt. It encourages and develops an understanding of coherence and progression in Mathematics and how different areas of Mathematics can be connected.

How will I be assessed? Syllabus no: Edexcel Level 3 Advance GCE in Further Mathematics (9FM0) Each unit is assessed by a 1.5 hour exam, worth 25% of the qualification, taken at the end of Year 13. There is no coursework.

Future opportunities​ Students regularly go on to university to read Mathematics alongside variety of other STEM degrees such as: Physics; Natural Sciences; Biomedical Science; Computer Science; Medicine; Chemical Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Nuclear Technology; Accounting & Finance.​ A Level Further Mathematics is a high status qualification for some of the Oxbridge and Russel group universities.

What are the entry requirements? A level Further Mathematics assumes that pupils will use the mathematical background and expertise developed in A level Mathematics, thus a high degree of motivation and interest is needed. Pupils must have a genuine interest in the subject in order to get the most from the course. A grade 8 or 9 at GCSE is preferred.

Combinations Further Mathematics can only be undertaken if A level Mathematics has been chosen. It is very well respected for university entrance and combines with any other A level subject.